Pakistan is expected to receive 500,000 doses of Pfizer’s new COVID-19 vaccine (2023-24 formula) in January 2024 to vaccinate high-risk groups, including pilgrims for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Before administering the vaccine, fresh Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) is required from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap), as the new Pfizer vaccine is currently only authorized for emergency use by the US FDA.
The vaccine is deemed effective against circulating variants, including Omicron. With rising cases globally, including the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron, authorities anticipate the need for the new vaccine to prevent its spread among pilgrims.
Despite low COVID-19 positivity in Pakistan, the authorities emphasize the importance of the new mRNA vaccine, anticipating Saudi authorities’ potential requirement for entry into their territory for Hajj.
The vaccine’s emergency use authorization is expected to be facilitated by Drap, aligning with the FDA’s certification process.
Additionally, concerns about vaccine suitability for children aged six months to 11 years are addressed, suggesting its efficacy for adults while acknowledging the sensitivity of younger age groups.
